What is Human Trafficking?

Human trafficking involves the use of power and control to force, defraud or coerce victims – often among society’s most vulnerable – into engaging in labor or services, including commercial sex. Traffickers use tactics including violence, deception or psychological threats to gain power and control over their victims, profiting from the exploitation of other human beings.

Although trafficking can occur in any work environment, common industries/settings where sex and labor trafficking victims can be found include:

Restaurants

Hotels

Construction

Landscaping

Health/elder care

Private homes/domestic work

Hair/nail salons

Sweatshops/factories

Summer camps/seasonal workers

Agricultural/farm work

Brothels

Massage parlors

Escort services

Street prostitution

Recognizing the Signs of Human Trafficking

Are you or someone you know being trafficked? Is trafficking happening in your community?

Below are some things to look for that might indicate that someone is being trafficked:

If you think someone you know has been trafficked, they may be eligible for free assistance. Please call 914-683-1333 and ask to speak to someone in MSP’s Human Trafficking Program, or call MSP’s 24-hour hotline at 1-800-298-SAFE (7233).